Arscott signs with Bristol
Fri, 20 Jun 2008 15:37
Bristol Rugby have secured the future of one of their brightest young playing talents, with the news that Tom Arscott has signed a new three-year contract.
Arscott arrived at Bristol 12 months ago fully expecting to bide his time in the United side, developing his game in preparation for trying to force his way into the first team reckoning.
However, he made an immediate impact in pre-season, scoring four tries against Clifton and showing up well in the friendly at Harlequins.
He didn't have long to wait until making his full first team debut - which came in the Guinness Premiership fixture at Sale Sharks.
Arscott went on to make 19 appearances and scored nine tries, including a brace against London Wasps and he also crossed the line in the Heineken Cup games against Cardiff Blues and Stade Francais.
He was also in the reckoning to make the England Saxons squad, but was unfortunately sidelined with an ankle injury.
Bristol Rugby head coach Richard Hill confirmed that getting Arscott to sign a new deal had been a priority for him.
"Arscott's emergence came as a very pleasant surprise for us last season," Hill said.
"We knew that he had real talent but it sometimes takes a little while for players from National League Division One to find their feet.
"However, Arscott looked at home immediately in the first team set up. He started well and maintained that form throughout the season.
"He can be a big part of Bristol Rugby's future and we very much wanted him to commit his future to the club. We're delighted that he's done so."
Arscott was understandably delighted to have committed to the club.
"I'm just really happy to get it all sorted so early on. Now I can really focus on the season ahead," Arscott said.
"Last season was great. I knew that stepping up a division would be tough but everyone at the club helped me to settle in quickly and it all went fantastically after that.
"Bristol's a great place to play rugby, the fans have been awesome. The club is looking at a bright future and I wanted to be part of that so I was glad to put pen to paper."
